Ducting Under Mature Trees

Mole Group Utilities was contacted by SMR Utilities after they were approached by their end client to provide and install 160mm OD MDPE red ducting beneath a mature hedgerow and established trees at a site in Blackburn.

The project presented several environmental and logistical challenges. Traditional open-cut excavation would have required significant disruption to the surrounding landscape, including the removal of mature vegetation, increased reinstatement costs, and extended programme times. To minimise the environmental impact and avoid unnecessary disturbance, the end client opted for a trenchless installation solution.

Using our specialist Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) expertise, Mole Group Utilities successfully completed the installation of approximately 30 metres of 160mm OD MDPE red ducting beneath the hedgerow and tree line without disturbing the surface above. Our team also supplied the ducting and carried out the necessary butt fusion welding, ensuring a strong, reliable, and fully compliant installation.

The trenchless approach not only protected the existing landscape but also significantly reduced disruption to the surrounding area, minimised reinstatement requirements, and provided a quicker, more cost-effective solution than conventional excavation methods.

By combining careful planning, experienced operatives, and specialist equipment, Mole Group Utilities delivered the project safely, efficiently, and to the highest standard, once again demonstrating the benefits of trenchless technology for environmentally sensitive utility installations.